Meet our Team: Ian Gill

As part of our special INTA edition of our ‘Meet our Team’ series, we speak to Ian Gill, a partner in our Trade Marks team, about his path from Aeronautical Engineering into IP, his recent professional recognitions, and what he’s most looking forward to as INTA comes to London, including his top tip for Ted Lasso fans visiting the city.

How did you get into working in IP or your Current role?

I studied Aeronautical Engineering, and enjoyed the course, but I was not inspired by the various roles that were available after graduation.  As part of the engineering course we studied some law modules, particularly relating to negligence as it is important to have some understanding of your liability if a project fails. I found this brief glimpse into the law fascinating, and a career as a patent attorney offered the prospect of using my engineering degree and also learning more about the law.

I worked with both patents and trade marks from day 1 – having qualified in both areas, my trade mark practice grew more rapidly, and that dominates most of my work today.

What recent successes have you had?

I am always delighted to be recognised by the various independent ranking agencies as this is generally a reflection of comments received from clients and other members of the profession – I am currently ranked or recognised in Chambers, WTR 1000, Legal 500, IP Stars, Managing IP Awards and World IP review.

What’s the best thing about working at Venner Shipley?

I am contractually and personally required to say that the best thing about working at Venner Shipley is that I get to work for my wife, Sian, who is the managing partner.  [Please insert your own joke here, accepting that I have heard them all already!]

What do you think is the next big thing in IP? 

The impact of AI on the profession is both a huge risk and opportunity – I cannot claim to have any great insight into the impact that it will have, and I am grateful of the work by the Venner Shipley AI task force in keeping us at the forefront of this change.

What do you do outside of work? 

I enjoy cooking for others and keeping fit – mainly running, swimming and weight training – but I will take any opportunity to head to the slopes to ski in the winter months.

Tell us a little more about you.

I had a number of jobs before going to university, including as a croupier in a casino and as a door-to-door encyclopaedia salesman. I learnt a lot about myself during this time, including that I am not a good door-to-door salesman!

What are you looking forward to most about INTA taking place in London this year?

I was initially concerned that London would not be an ideal location for INTA, and it definitely requires a higher level of organisation compared with some other venues, but I am looking forward to showing friends and colleagues around our amazing city!

What is one hidden gem in London that you would advise people to visit whilst in the city?

For any fan of Ted Lasso, a visit to Richmond is essential – Richmond is less than 20 mins from Waterloo by train, and all the main Ted Lasso attractions are within an easy walk of the station!